Souda Beach
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Souda Beach Plakias

4.6
·2k reviews·, Greece

A serene pebbly beach with rare Cretan date palms, offering calm, clear waters perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Peaceful vibes, refreshing water

CrowdLow
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Souda Beach

Souda Beach Plakias

Best Time

Afternoons

Peaceful vibes, refreshing water

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene pebbly beach with rare Cretan date palms, offering calm, clear waters perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A very charming spot with a nice sense of peace, harmony, and tranquility."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚾 Toilet Tip

Limited official toilets; use facilities at nearby tavernas. :toilet:

☀️ Sunbed Rental

Sets cost around 7-9€, offering comfort on the pebbly shore. :euro:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal Clear Waters

Souda Beach

Dive into incredibly clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling among vibrant marine life.

Cretan Date Palms

Cretan Date Palms

Souda Beach

Relax under the shade of rare Cretan date palms, a unique natural backdrop to this serene beach.

Seafood Tavernas

Seafood Tavernas

Western end of Souda Beach

Savor fresh seafood and Greek specialties at charming tavernas offering shade and local flavors.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Souda Beach offers a peaceful escape with its calm, clear waters and unique atmosphere. While parking is easy, note that official toilets are scarce; nearby tavernas offer facilities. It's ideal for relaxation, especially in the afternoons.

Navigating Souda Beach

This pebbly beach with fine gravel is well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. Be aware that one end is unofficially reserved for nudists, which some visitors find inconvenient for families.

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Peaceful vibes, refreshing water
Crowd
Low
When
Late July
Why
Warm water, ideal for swimming
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Agia Fotia, Rethymno #fyp #foryou #greece #crete #travel
@nancybg__
25.4K likes • 595K views

🚾 Toilet Tip

Limited official toilets; use facilities at nearby tavernas. :toilet:

☀️ Sunbed Rental

Sets cost around 7-9€, offering comfort on the pebbly shore. :euro:

Thanks for all the love y’all 💕 here are some Rethymno, GR recs! 🇬🇷 #fyp #greecetravel #rethymno #greece #travelrecs #crete
@foodpeopleluv
15.7K likes • 348.1K views
Souda Beach • Crete 🇬🇷 #plakias #crete #greece #beach #summer
the_wandering_wanderlust
5 likes • 226 views

🐠 Snorkeling Paradise

Explore rocky formations and abundant sea life in the clear waters. :fish:

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Walk

Enjoy a beautiful 5-minute walk from Plakias village. :walking:

Souda Beach near Plakias. My favorite beach.
increteibles
15 likes • 600 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚾 Toilet Tip

Limited official toilets; use facilities at nearby tavernas. :toilet:

☀️ Sunbed Rental

Sets cost around 7-9€, offering comfort on the pebbly shore. :euro:

🐠 Snorkeling Paradise

Explore rocky formations and abundant sea life in the clear waters. :fish:

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Walk

Enjoy a beautiful 5-minute walk from Plakias village. :walking:

💨 Windy but Calm

Often windy, but the water remains calm, perfect for relaxation. :wind_face:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Souda Beach is a charming and tranquil spot praised for its clear, calm waters and unique palm-backed scenery. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, convenient parking, and good snorkeling opportunities. However, the limited official toilet facilities and the unofficial nudist section at one end are noted drawbacks.

"A very charming spot. The beach has a unique atmosphere, with a nice sense of peace, harmony, and tranquility. It’s a small pebbly beach with fine gravel and tiny stones. Although it can be a bit windy, the water is calm, with no big waves, making it a relaxing place to spend time.

Parking is conveniently located right next to the beach. There are only basic toilet facilities, but you can also use the restroom at a nearby café.

Overall, a lovely place, especially in the afternoons when it feels even more peaceful."

Mateusz Dwornikowski

"One of the prettiest and cleanest beaches in the south of Rethymno. Crystal clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere make it perfect for relaxing, especially on windy days when other beaches can be rough."

Noula Tsontou

"The beach is well organized with minor exception - lack of toilets. The only toilets available are those in a few cafes on the western end of the beach. The southern end of the beach is reserved for nudists, although not officially. Going from there to the western end of the beach there are few sunbeds/umbrellas blocks. We went to the one with bamboo-style umbrellas and beige sunbeds, a set costs 9€. The water was a bit cold but at the end of July the temperature rose to 38 degrees and that water felt so refreshing. It was crystal clear, going deep fairly quickly, but it was ideal for snorkeling among the rocky formations. The water was full of sea world, the best I've seen so far on Crete."

Goran Micic

What People Like

Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Clear, calm waters
Unique palm trees

What People Dislike

Limited toilet facilities
Unofficial nudist area

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Souda Beach is located about 30 kilometers south of Rethymno. You can drive there, with parking conveniently available near the beach. Alternatively, it's a pleasant 5-minute drive or a leisurely walk from the nearby village of Plakias. TikTokInstagram

While specific public transport routes directly to Souda Beach might be limited, buses frequently run to Plakias from Rethymno. From Plakias, the beach is a short walk or taxi ride away. TikTok

You can reach Souda Beach from Plakias by a short 5-minute car ride or a beautiful, slow walk along the coast. Instagram

Yes, parking is conveniently located right next to the beach, making it easy to access. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a lovely, slow walk along the coast from Plakias village, taking about five minutes. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to access Souda Beach itself. You only pay for optional sunbed and umbrella rentals. Reddit

Souda Beach is a natural beach and is accessible at all times. However, amenities like tavernas and sunbed rentals operate during daylight hours. Instagram

It's generally not necessary to book sunbeds in advance, especially during weekdays or outside peak season. You can usually rent them upon arrival. Reddit

While the beach is open to all, one end is unofficially used by nudists, which might be a consideration for some visitors. Reddit

Sunbed and umbrella sets typically cost around 7-9 euros, depending on the specific block you choose. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Souda Beach is a small, pebbly beach with fine gravel and tiny stones. It's known for its peaceful atmosphere and clear, calm waters, making it ideal for relaxation. Reddit

Official toilet facilities are basic and limited. Your best bet is to use the restrooms available at the nearby cafes and tavernas on the western end of the beach. Reddit

The calm waters are great for kids, but be aware that one end of the beach is unofficially used for nudism, which may be uncomfortable for some families. Reddit

Yes, the crystal-clear water and rocky formations make it excellent for snorkeling, with a rich variety of marine life to discover. Reddit

Souda Beach generally offers a sense of peace and tranquility, especially in the afternoons. While popular, it's less crowded than some other Cretan beaches. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several charming seafood tavernas located on the western end of Souda Beach, offering fresh fish and Greek specialties in a shaded setting. InstagramReddit

The tavernas specialize in fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. They provide a lovely dining experience with views of the sea. InstagramReddit

Many of the beach bars and tavernas offer drinks, snacks, and light meals, often available for purchase when you rent sunbeds. Instagram

While there are tavernas, you are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy on the beach, especially if you find a spot away from the organized sunbed areas. Instagram

Most Greek tavernas offer a variety of vegetarian mezes and main courses, such as Greek salad, tzatziki, and vegetable dishes. It's always a good idea to ask about their vegetarian options. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the serene beauty of the clear turquoise waters, the unique Cretan date palms, and the dramatic cliff backdrop. The sunsets can also be spectacular. Instagram+2

Absolutely! The combination of the natural landscape, the calm sea, and the distinctive palm trees makes Souda Beach a very photogenic location. Instagram+1

The golden hours, early morning and late afternoon, offer beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers vibrant colors. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of other beachgoers' privacy before flying a drone. Instagram

The entire stretch of the beach offers lovely views. Walking towards the western end near the tavernas provides a good vantage point with amenities in the frame. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Souda Beach offers calm, clear waters that are generally safe for children to swim and play in. The nearby tavernas provide convenient spots for meals and access to restrooms. Reddit However, families should be aware that one end of the beach is unofficially used by nudists, which might be a consideration depending on your comfort level. Reddit

Consider bringing water shoes for the pebbly shore and exploring the shallow areas for small marine life. The shade from the tamarisk trees and rented umbrellas can offer a good respite from the sun. Instagram

🧘‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

Souda Beach is an excellent choice for solo travelers looking for a tranquil escape. The peaceful atmosphere, especially in the afternoons, allows for quiet contemplation and relaxation. Reddit You can rent a sunbed, enjoy the calm sea, and savor a meal at one of the seaside tavernas. InstagramReddit

The easy access and parking make it hassle-free to visit. It's a place where you can truly unwind, read a book, or simply soak in the natural beauty without the usual beach crowds. Instagram

🐠 Snorkelers & Nature Lovers

If you're passionate about marine life, Souda Beach is a must-visit. The exceptionally clear waters and rocky underwater formations create a vibrant habitat for numerous fish species, offering some of the best snorkeling experiences on Crete. Reddit

Beyond the underwater world, the unique grove of Cretan date palms provides a distinctive natural landscape. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers to appreciate both the terrestrial and aquatic beauty of the region. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Charm of Souda Beach

Souda Beach, near Plakias, is celebrated for its distinct atmosphere of peace and tranquility. Unlike some of Crete's more bustling beaches, Souda offers a serene escape, characterized by its fine gravel and pebbly shore. The water is consistently calm, with minimal waves, making it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation and a break from the elements. InstagramReddit

The beach is backed by a grove of rare Cretan date palms, adding a unique visual element and providing natural shade. This distinctive flora, combined with the clear, inviting waters of the Libyan Sea, creates a picturesque setting that has captivated visitors for years. TikTokInstagram

While the beach is well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, it maintains a laid-back vibe. The nearby tavernas offer a taste of local Cretan cuisine, enhancing the overall experience without detracting from the beach's peaceful ambiance. InstagramReddit

Navigating Amenities and Etiquette

When planning your visit to Souda Beach, it's important to be aware of the available amenities. While parking is readily accessible right next to the beach, official toilet facilities are quite basic and limited. Most visitors find it convenient to use the restrooms at the tavernas located on the western end of the beach. Reddit

Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, typically costing around 7-9 euros per set. These provide comfort on the pebbly shore. However, a point of consideration for some visitors is that the southern end of the beach is unofficially designated for nudists. While not officially marked, this can be a surprise for families expecting a conventional beach experience. Reddit

Despite this, the beach is generally considered very clean and well-maintained. The water, though sometimes a bit cool, is crystal clear and deepens relatively quickly, making it excellent for snorkeling among the rocky formations teeming with marine life. Reddit

Souda Beach: A Snorkeler's Delight

For underwater enthusiasts, Souda Beach presents an exceptional opportunity for snorkeling. The clarity of the water is consistently praised, allowing for excellent visibility of the marine ecosystem. Reddit

The rocky formations along the seabed are a haven for diverse sea life. Visitors have reported encountering a rich variety of fish and other underwater creatures, with some describing it as the best snorkeling they've experienced on Crete. This makes the beach not just a place for sunbathing but also for active exploration beneath the waves. Reddit

Even if you're not an avid snorkeler, the calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming and floating. The gentle slope into the sea makes it accessible for most, and the refreshing temperature, especially during warmer months, is a welcome respite. InstagramReddit

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